Do you have or have you ever had red and irritated skin in between your thighs? If so, you’re familiar with chafing.

Chafing is one of the most irritating skin challenges that you can deal with. The best part about it is that it is totally preventable. Chafing can occur to anybody both male and female regardless of their age or body size. Before we get too much into it, and because chafing can appear in awkward, hard to reach places, we suggest getting yourself a vanity with mirror and lights, so you can easily inspect your skin

What Is Chafing?

Chafing can be referred to as irritation on the skin that is caused by friction. It happens when skin rubs against each other in different parts of the body. It mostly occurs in the inner thighs, armpits, and inner glutes areas.

Other areas that can develop chafing in the body is the nipples, however, not so common. Generally, this skin irritation is not fun to deal with at all. It is a very common occurrence during summer because of the sun and the sweating that comes along with it.

Severe chafing can be quite painful and it inhibits movement and this is because when you move there is friction and that triggers the pain. This skin irritation is quite common during activities like cycling and long distance running. There are a number of issues that can contribute to chafing such as:

·         Having a sensitive skin

·         Sweating

·         Hot weather

·         Humidity

·         Water on the skin if not properly dried

·         Wearing the wrong kind of fabric

·         Excess body weight

·         Large muscles

·         Clothes that do not fit well

How to Avoid Chafing

The first thing that you will notice on a chafed skin is a hot spot. The earlier it is detected the better. If not addressed the areas will appear red and irritated. If you have ever experienced chafing then I can be sure that you would not want to go through it again.

Let us take a look at some of the ways that you can use to prevent this skin irritation:

1. Lubrication

One of the most used lubricants used to prevent interrupt the friction is petroleum jelly. Apply it generously to chafe-prone areas on your body. You can also use a sports deodorant stick.

There are a number of products in the market that can prevent chafing. Do not use lotions as their effect do not last long. You can also pay a visit to a sports shop near you and check out the anti-chafe lubricants that they have.

2. Wear the Right Clothing

Avoid putting on any loose fitting or baggy clothes. You need to have a snug fitting short or trouser and spandex or lycra top to go with it. There are shorts that are designed to have a tight fit but are still perfectly comfortable.

Ensure that you choose clothes that are made of sweat-wicking fabric and are either seamless or has flat seams, especially if you will wear them in the areas that are prone to chafing. Remember to stay away from cotton.

3. Stay Hydrated

Drinking a lot of water before, during, and also after your workout or walk. This will help you perspire freely. The perspiration will not dry on your skin and form salt crystals that are likely to trigger chafing.

4. Try to Stay Dry

You can use powders, especially unscented powders to help you stay dry. Potato or cornstarch and body powder have been known to work.

You can also shop around for other brands of powder that have been introduced in the market for sports people. If your clothes are soaked, change first to dry ones before resuming your workout.

5. Clean Your Body

Dirt build-up on the skin can also cause chafing. When sweat, dirt, and, body oils come together they cause dirt and if not cleaned you will be leaving that part of your body prone to chafe. Therefore, wash your skin daily especially during the hot season.

6. Wash Your Workout Gear Daily

It is not just enough that you should clean your body but wearing dirty clothes on a clean skin can still irritate it. Wash your clothes thoroughly and get rid of all the sweat and dirt that the clothes might have come into contact with.

7. Buy Anti-Chafing Underwear

These types of underwear will help to protect your thighs from chafing. They are particularly designed to reduce moisture and friction and are perfect for everyday wear especially if you are active and for athletes too

Remedies

Now that you can be able to answer the question, what is chafing, and how to prevent them, am sure you’re wondering how to stop chafing. Below are some of the remedies that you can use to treat chafing should you experience it.

·         Clean the affected area with care:
Gently wash with lukewarm water to soothe the irritation and to get rid of any dried sweat. Pat dry or air out the area to get rid of dampness.

·         Apply an ointment on the skin:
You can use a diaper rash product but if you need a faster solution, then you can look for an off the shelf corticosteroid but be careful not overuse it and it can thin the skin. You can also use oils like olive and tea tree and also aloe vera gel that is known for their healing properties.

·         Wear soft and breathable clothing like cotton during the day till the irritation ceases.

·         Use a mild cleanser on the skin. Do not scrub it.

·         Keep the affected area moisturized and do not use any chemical based moisturizers. Stick to petroleum jelly.

·         Consult your doctor especially if the irritation looks severe. Chafing, especially when ignored can be very painful and might not respond to home remedies.

Now That You Know All About Chafing, What Next?

With all this information on chafing, you no longer have to stay indoors during summer because of the heat. Enjoy your long walks along the beach and that lovely outdoor cycling.

Remember, these remedies apply to both men and women and there are great products that can appeal to both gender in the market. All you need to do is get yourself the right product and enjoy the beautiful sun that mother nature has to offer.

For more information on how to enjoy being a dad, visit our blog and get amazing ideas.